Group working together to create Chile’s inaugural offshore wind farm.

Efforts to kickstart an offshore wind farm industry in Chile began on August 1, with organizers emphasizing the potential for contributing to the energy transition. However, they also acknowledged that Chile lacks the necessary policy and regulatory framework to support offshore wind energy development. UK-based 17 Energy and Chile’s SC Power joined forces to establish the Viento Azul Biobio Consortium, dedicated to developing the country’s first offshore wind projects. A meeting was held with government officials, industry leaders, and community representatives to discuss the potential for offshore wind energy in Chile.

Daniel Perdomo, Director at 17 Energy, expressed optimism about Chile’s energy future, stating that the consortium aims to build a sustainable offshore wind industry that creates jobs, drives economic growth, and protects the environment. The company outlined plans for an offshore wind farm off the central coast of Chile in the Biobio region, near major ports and industrial hubs. They believe offshore wind can complement existing electrical infrastructure and help retire coal power plants in the region.

Rodrigo Corvalán, Articulación de Stakeholders at SC Power, highlighted the transformative potential of offshore wind in Chile, despite recognizing the challenges of developing a new industry. The proposed offshore wind project could range between 500 MW and 1 GW, with a development budget of up to $4.3 billion. The partnership between 17 Energy and SC Power aims to facilitate Chile’s energy transformation, leveraging the country’s abundant wind resources. As more countries in South America explore offshore wind power generation, Chile aims to lead the way in embracing this renewable energy source.

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